While many people slept their Saturday away, more than 20 Marines and sailors from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar spent it painting playground structures and rooms at Mason Elementary School here March 13.
The event was part of the Single Marine Program’s volunteer opportunity program which helps single service members assist their local community.
“I volunteered because a lot of times on the weekends I don’t do anything that’s of importance,” said Cpl. Nathaniel Newberry, a maintenance administration specialist with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force. “I wanted to do something that actually mattered so I signed up to help this cause.”
The Marines began by taping sections of the library, the main office, a classroom and a hallway. They stretched the blue tape over fixtures attached the walls and anything that did not need to be painted. Once they finished taping, the service members began priming and painting the walls.
The volunteers also spent their time painting parts of the school’s playground including a map of the United States, several walls, tree planters, and numbers for four-square and several other games.
“They were amazing,” said Dawn Powell, the vice principal at Mason Elementary School. “They were very quick and detailed. They’re our Mason heroes for beautifying our school. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
In addition to painting, the Marines and sailors spent time remodeling a classroom by moving desks around, pinning up classroom learning tools and moving a white board.
“This was the first time I’ve done something like this, and I had a blast,” said Newberry. “I think more people should volunteer. It opens people’s eyes when you actually do. It shows the nation that we are still here for them, and we want to help. We’re not just fighting a war; we’re here for the people.”
Although many only see the combat-oriented side of the military, the event showed another generous side of service members. Through volunteer work, the Marines and sailors of MCAS Miramar continue to serve their community one school at a time.
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